Teach elementary, middle or high school?

Question

I am planning on becoming a teacher upon graduating from university. I love the company of children, but I know that they are hard to deal with. Should I start off teaching at the elementary level? Or should I start at the high-school level instead, instead? I want to teach at the primary educational level first so I can get experience before eventually becoming a university professor.

Answer 1

If you are going to be a teacher, there will be a point where you do student teaching... this is a good chance to see if you are going to be able to "handle" the different levels. Also, if you go into a Master's program after your BA/BS, you can do student teaching at the freshman college level (usually in your own department) - which will help in your decision making process as well. If your education program doesn't require student teaching, maybe you should volunteer at the different levels for at least a quarter or semester and see how it feels. You will find the age group you like... Elementary is rewarding because the kids are sponges - soaking up all the information you give them. Junior High is fun cuz they still listen to you, but can partake in discussions... High school is interesting cuz you are an integral part of their immediate future's success (college)... Keep in mind that the different levels are not like a walk up the corporate ladder...Education isn't necessarily a "promotional" type of job... you don't start as a 1st grade teacher and wind up a college professor!! If you ultimately want to be a college professor, do what it takes to become a college prof. right off the bat.

Answer 2

If you will eventually teach college students, I would teach high school students first. You could also teach part-time as a junior college instructor. While you are getting your master's degree, plan on applying for a teacher's assistantship. You will help grade papers and lecture if the professor is absent. This will give you experience in the college classroom/lecture hall. I think if you teach primary children you have a completely different mind set than if you were to teach high school students. I would assume if you are planning on becoming a professor, intellectualizing with students is important to you. You will not have the opportunity to do this in the primary grades. Good luck - teaching is an admirable occupation and very rewarding!

Answer 3

Just follow your heart. If you like children, go there. Give the best for the children. With teach them, we can help them to build their future. And if you want to be a university professor, i think think that the way for you, even if you start as a elementary teacher. And may be you can focus at the children education at the university.

Answer 4

I would suggest that you begin teaching high school if you eventually want to become a university professor. The reason is because students in high school will not just accept whatever you teach them, but challenge you and ask you questions about it. It's a great way to practice this type of teaching-style, since college students do the same thing.
good luck to you!

Answer 5

I still remember there are some good teachers in my high school. They teach you not just academic knowledge, but make you aware (not forcing) of some values and how to think in other perspectives. But teenagers may sometimes be hard to deal with.

Answer 6

if you want to be a prof, teach high school as elementary is mainly babysitting; if you like children that much consider just being a lower education teacher.

Answer 7

At the grade school age they come to school spouting what they learn from their screwed up parents,, in middle school they are horny little dorks and in high school they are horny, pregnant, and drugged out dorks... Your options are very limited... I would pick the elementary; maybe you can help prevent some of the other vicious cycles! It sounds crude, but I am serious. Good Luck

Answer 8

yes do what you think that makes you feel happy...teaching primary is a good start untill you reach in higher education...but you have to consider yourself to where do you think you are best suit for the level.